Using and Maintaining a Vehicle in Hot Weather
Your car is a miracle of modern engineering and designed to work in a variety of weather and climate conditions. However, it may need extra care and maintenance to function in hot weather. The best way to keep your car running safely and efficiently in hot weather is to anticipate the needs of the vehicle and take specific measures to prepare it for the extreme temperatures. The following tips will help you get your car ready for hot weather and show you how to maintain it during the summer months.
Make sure your car is up to date with all the necessary maintenance. The hotter the weather gets, the more important it is to make sure that all the components of your car are in good working order. In hot weather, ensure your car is properly serviced and running properly by having it inspected. This includes changing the oil, inspecting the entire cooling system and making sure all fluids, hoses and belts are in good condition.
When the weather gets really hot, it’s important to cool down your car before you start the engine. Once the engine is hot, the air conditioning can’t cool it down as quickly. To cool down your car, open all the windows and let the air circulate. You can also park in the shade or use a window shade to keep your car cooler.
Be sure to check your vehicles tire inflation. Underinflated tires can cause reduced fuel efficiency, increased wear and tear, and a higher risk of blowouts in hot weather. Regularly check all four tire pressure values, including the spare tire. You can find your car’s recommended tire pressure in your vehicle’s owner’s manual and on a sticker in the driver’s side door frame.
It’s also important to make sure that your windshield wipers are in good condition. The heat of the summer can cause your windshield wipers to become brittle and break, leaving you unable to properly clean the windshield. Be sure to replace your wiper blades as necessary to ensure you’re able to see clearly in the rain.
If you’re traveling in hot weather, it’s important to make sure your car is stocked with the necessary resources. Make sure you have a gallon of water, a spare tire, jumper cables, a flashlight, a blanket and snacks on hand. In addition, make sure you’ve filled up with the proper fuel and oil and double-check your vehicle’s engine air filter, spark plugs and exhaust system to make sure it’s in good condition.
It’s also important to be mindful of the amount of time you spend in the car in hot weather. Heatstroke is a real danger, and spending too long in the car can be dangerous. Try to find ways to give yourself a break, such as sharing driving responsibilities or making frequent stops at rest stops.
By taking the necessary steps, you can ensure that your vehicle is prepared for hot weather and runs safely and efficiently. Be sure to regularly check the oil and other fluids, the belts and hoses, the tire pressure and the windshield wipers. In addition, stock your car with the necessary resources, cool it down before you start the engine and be mindful of how long you spend in the car in hot weather. Taking these simple steps will help make sure your car runs its best in the heat.
